Rawalpindi, November 2024 – The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has taken a firm stance to preserve the city’s green spaces and regulate urban expansion. Guided by Director General Kinza Murtaza, the RDA has introduced strong measures to protect the environment and promote responsible urban growth.
Key Decisions to Protect Green Spaces
In its latest move, the RDA has:
- All proposals for new private housing developments: In Rawalpindi Tehsil have been put on hold until the city’s revised master plan is finalized.
2. Restricted Land Transactions: Land transactions in agricultural and peri-urban green areas have been prohibited to reduce urban extend and protect vital environmental zones.
These measures are part of RDA’s commitment to maintaining the city’s environmental balance while promoting responsible urban development.
Why Green Spaces Matter
Green spaces are essential for combating urban heat, reducing pollution, and maintaining the environmental health of Rawalpindi. “Preserving green areas is not just about protecting the environment but about ensuring a livable future for the residents of our city,” emphasized DG Kinza Murtaza.
Environmental experts agree that rapid urbanization in Rawalpindi has led to the overstepping of agricultural land, Increasing air pollution and diminishing the city’s natural beauty. The RDA’s actions demonstrate its resolve to align urban planning with environmental preservation.
Strict Action Against Illegal Housing Schemes
The RDA has completed a detailed inventory of unauthorized housing projects and is actively working to halt unlawful constructions. DG Kinza Murtaza has warned that strict specialized measures will be taken against those found facilitating illegal developments, including RDA staff.
The authority has formed a Governance Redressal Committee to address concerns from affected individuals and ensure fair implementation of these measures.
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Developing a Master Plan for the Future
Pausing new housing scheme approvals highlights the critical need for a well-structured master plan tailored for Rawalpindi. This plan will act as a blueprint for sustainable urban development, balancing economic growth with eco-friendly preservation.
The RDA has also committed to working closely with stakeholders, including local governments and environmental organizations, to finalize the master plan efficiently.
A Sustainable Vision for Rawalpindi
These initiatives are in line with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for sustainable urban development across the province. By protecting green spaces, regulating land use, and cracking down on illegal housing schemes, the RDA is setting a standard for other cities in Pakistan to follow.
“This is a pivotal moment for Rawalpindi,” DG Kinza Murtaza stated. “The choices we make today will shape the living standards and environment for future generations.”
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